Seasoned Spinach (Namul)
Seasonal Vegetable Side Dish: Delicious Field-Grown Spinach Namul
Spinach gets even sweeter and more delicious as the weather gets colder! Field-grown spinach, in particular, has a naturally enhanced sweetness, making it perfect for a simple seasoned dish. Enjoy the pure, delightful flavor of this healthy and essential banchan.
Main Ingredients- 250g field-grown spinach
- 1.5L water (for blanching)
- 1 Tbsp salt (for blanching)
Seasoning- 4-5 pinches fine salt (or soy sauce, adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp chopped green onion (optional)
- 4-5 pinches fine salt (or soy sauce, adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp chopped green onion (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the field-grown spinach. Carefully trim off any wilted or yellowed leaves, and gently scrape away any dirt from the root ends with the tip of a knife. This ensures the spinach remains fresh and clean.
Step 2
Cut the trimmed spinach into 2-4 equal pieces, depending on size. Place the cut spinach in a bowl of cold water and gently swish it around to wash off any remaining dirt. Repeat this rinsing process 1-2 more times until the water runs clear.
Step 3
Bring 1.5L of water to a rolling boil in a pot, adding 1 Tbsp of salt. Once boiling, add the washed spinach and blanch it for just 30-40 seconds. Be careful not to overcook, as this can make the spinach mushy and diminish its nutrients. Immediately transfer the blanched spinach to a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process. Rinse it in the cold water, gently swishing, 2-3 times. Finally, gently squeeze out as much excess water as possible using your hands.
Step 4
To the squeezed spinach, add all the prepared seasoning ingredients: minced garlic, toasted sesame seeds, sesame oil, and fine salt (or soy sauce). You can also add the chopped green onion at this stage if using.
Step 5
Gently toss and mix the spinach with the seasonings until everything is evenly distributed. Avoid being too rough, as this can break the spinach apart. It’s common for the seasoned spinach to taste slightly saltier than you might prefer initially. As the spinach sits, it will release its natural moisture, which will mellow the seasoning to the perfect level. Enjoy your delicious spinach namul!
